My First Impression of Okonkwo

When I started to read Things Fall Apart, I was extremely fascinated by the nature of Okonkwo. I respected him for striving to be a great man, especially considering he came from a dishonorable background. The difference i responsibility between Okonkwo and his father was incredible. It was impressive to read about his success in wrestling. As the story started to evolve, I found myself disgusted with the manner in which Okonkwo treated his wives and his many children. He really didn't need to be so cruel and violent just in order to play "tough guy." For example, I thought it completely unnecessary to beat his wife just to get satisfaction. I soon understood that Okonkwo was extremely paranoid of becoming anything like his father. He mentions that as his father began to get older, he became more kind and compassionate. Therefore, Okonkwo is sure to be just the opposite: vicious and angry. I began to feel pity for his wife and his children for having to put up with his cruelty. Later, when Ezinma is being taken to the cave, her mother follows because she loves her and is afraid that her daughter will be hurt. Remarkably, Okonkwo also follows with a machete. He not only ones travels to the Cave, which is a long distance away, but he goes four times. He requests his wife to return home and offers to wait for his daughter and ensure her safety. By his fourth visit to the cave he is described as being "gravely worried." This truly shows that despite his cruelty and toughness, Okonkwo truly does care for his family.

What Defines You?

The first Ted Talk I watched was shown in class last Monday. Since then, I have found myself lost watching a countless number of interesting Ted Talks. I had an extremely difficult time deciding which one I would blog about. I wanted to find one that sent a message that anybody can relate to.

Although we aren't faced with an unknown syndrome like Lizzie, I think her story is one that should be heard by all. Throughout her life, Lizzie, now 25 years old, has faced incredible hardship. Somehow, she has risen beyond what others have said about her to find the good. Though she is extremely skinny and small, she is satisfied because she can eat all she wants. She was able to find the   light.

Lizzie uses the negative aspects as a ladder to climb to the top. When she was in high school, somebody posted an 8 second video of her titled "The World's Ugliest Woman." The video received millions of views and numerous comments. One of the commenters wrote, "Please, please do the world a favor: put a gun to your head and kill yourself."

The incredible woman, only in high school, used all the negative to inspire herself and not let others' opinions of her define who she was.